Mental Health 101
True or False: Children don't experience mental health issues.
False. Even very young children may show early warning signs of mental health concerns.
True or False: Bad feelings are always detrimental to your well-being.
False. Experiencing negative emotions like fear and anger is important for mental health, helping us evaluate experiences and avoiding complacency.
Name two healthy coping mechanisms for stress.
Taking breaks, practicing deep breathing, engaging in physical activity, meditation, journaling, getting enough sleep, and staying connected with others are all effective strategies.
How many minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity should teens get most days of the week?
At least 60 minutes.
What is one way to encourage positive self-talk and boost self-esteem?
Recognizing your achievements, however big or small, practicing self-compassion, and focusing on your strengths can help build a more positive mindset.
True or False: Mental health issues can't affect everyone.
False. Mental health issues can affect anyone. In fact, roughly one in five American adults experience a mental health condition in any given year.
Emotions are not just psychological; they can also be felt _________.
Physically, according to a study by Finnish scientists, according to Happify.
What does self-care encompass?
Self-care involves putting your needs first and caring for yourself, which can include various activities like exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, and setting boundaries.
True or False: Skipping breakfast is not a big deal.
False. Eating a healthy, balanced breakfast is an important part of a healthy diet, and provides energy and nutrients to start the day right.
Why is building a strong support network of friends and family important for your emotional health?
A support system provides a sense of belonging, helps you feel less alone, and offers an outlet for sharing feelings and seeking advice during difficult times.
What is one recommended technique for teens to manage stress and improve their mood?
Gratitude journaling, where you write down things you're grateful for, or practicing mindfulness, like deep breathing exercises.
True or False: Mood swings are a normal part of puberty and adolescence.
True. Hormonal changes and brain development can intensify emotions and lead to more frequent and rapid mood changes.
True or False: Talking about suicide and mental health makes things worse.
False. Talking openly and honestly about mental health can actually help break the stigma.
Which of these is a benefit of regular physical activity for teens?
a) Increases stress
b) Weakens bones
c) Improves blood circulation
d) Worsens sleep
c) Improves blood circulation. Regular exercise can also help with weight control, improve sleep, reduce stress, and strengthen bones, among other benefits.
True or False: Being physically active can also help improve your academic performance.
True. Regular exercise can improve brain function, focus, and memory, leading to better academic outcomes.
Which of the following is the most common type of mental illness in the U.S.?
a) Schizophrenia
b) Bipolar Disorder
c) Anxiety Disorders
d) Depression
c) Anxiety Disorders. An estimated 19.1% of people in the U.S. have anxiety, according to Elevation Behavioral Health.
How can cultivating self-awareness help manage emotions?
Recognizing an emotion earlier gives you more choice in how to deal with it, according to Medium.
What is the best way to support someone struggling with their mental health?
Listen without judgment.
How many hours of sleep do most teens need per night?
Most teens need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep per night.
How can good sleep hygiene (a consistent bedtime and wake-up time) improve your emotional health?
Good sleep improves mood, reduces irritability, enhances concentration, and helps manage stress, all contributing to better emotional health.
What does the lime green ribbon symbolize in the context of mental health awareness?
Lime green is gaining recognition as the national color for mental health awareness. Wearing it is a simple way to show support.
What part of the brain is thought to be more in charge of triggering emotions and immediate responses in teenagers compared to the prefrontal cortex, which is still developing?
The amygdala.
What does it mean to "reframe negative thoughts?"
To challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more balanced and constructive ones, says Imagine Spokane.
Beyond the temporary jitters and potential anxiety, what serious cardiovascular event has been linked to excessive energy drink consumption, particularly in young, seemingly healthy individuals?
Heart attack or cardiac arrest.
True or False: If you are struggling with your mental health, you don't need parental permission to seek help from your doctor or a counselor.
True. Teens can schedule appointments with their doctor to discuss concerns and potentially be referred to a counselor or therapist. Seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness.